Preparation

Cook onion and garlic with 1/2 teaspoon salt in oil in a large heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until pale golden, about 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, discard stems from mushrooms. Halve caps, then thinly slice crosswise. Add mushrooms and thyme to onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes with their juice, stock, barley, and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper and simmer briskly, covered, stirring occasionally, until barley is tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in spinach and cook 1 minute, then season with salt.

Meanwhile (if using eggs), bring 2 quarts water to a simmer with vinegar and 1 tablespoon salt in a wide medium saucepan.

Break 1 egg into a cup and slide into water. Repeat with remaining eggs, spacing evenly. Poach at a bare simmer until whites are firm and yolks are still runny, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to paper towels using a slotted spoon.

Serve soup in bowls, topped with eggs.

Cooks' note:
The (optional) eggs in this recipe will not be fully cooked, which may be of concern if salmonella is a problem in your area.

my notes

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Recent Review

I was not expecting this recipe to be so good - it was delicious. Admittedly, a few tweaks: no mushrooms so instead started with a mirepoix to make sure there was enough flavor base; used mixed poultry seasonings instead of fresh thyme; added some ancho chili powder and crushed red peppers because I didn't have fire roasted tomatoes; swapped spinach for kale. Also, I left the lid off for most of the boil to make it more of a stew. If you're thinking about skipping the poached egg - don't! It added so much to the dish.